Aryaka announced the release of a new research report
exploring network security challenges and trends in the manufacturing
industry. Conducted by GatePoint Research, the report ("The State of
Network Security in Manufacturing: Key Findings on Visibility, Resource
Constraints, and Cyber Resilience") gathers insights from senior
decision-makers across the manufacturing sector, revealing that
visibility into network activity, secure global connectivity, and
resource constraints are top priorities for manufacturers.
Given the distributed nature of manufacturing operations-with many
organizations managing dozens or even hundreds of networked facilities
across North America, Europe, and other regions-effective network
security is a strategic asset. However, many respondents report
significant hurdles, such as resource constraints, managing cyber
threats, and maintaining cost-effective operations while modernizing
their network infrastructure.
Demand for Visibility, Secure Connectivity, and Simplification Underscore Need for Network and Security Convergence
The data shows that over 60% of respondents cited improved
observability as a critical focus, followed closely by secure
connectivity for global workforces (54%) and the need to control costs
(50%).
Key findings include:
- A Growing Resource and Skills Gap: 68% of respondents said their IT teams are understaffed or lack the necessary training to manage growing network complexities.
- Visibility as a Priority:
64% identified real-time network visibility as crucial to maintaining
security and operational efficiency in a global manufacturing context.
- Secure Global Connectivity:
54% of manufacturing leaders highlighted the need for secure access for
remote teams and global sites, emphasizing the importance of consistent
and reliable connectivity.
- Cost Control and Simplification:
50% of respondents indicated that simplifying network management and
controlling costs are essential, particularly as they expand into cloud
and multi-cloud environments.
- Convergence as a Strategic Advantage: The report
shows that manufacturing organizations see value in converged network
and security solutions, which offer enhanced security, operational
resilience, and reduced IT workloads.
"Manufacturers today are balancing rapid digital transformation with
the demands of securing a distributed network infrastructure," said Ken
Rutsky, Chief Marketing Officer at Aryaka. "This survey highlights the
key areas where manufacturers seek support-especially in achieving
network visibility, improving resource efficiency, and simplifying
operations, as well as their readiness to address these challenges. Our
Unified SASE as a Service offering is designed to address these needs,
empowering customers to protect their organization, streamline
operations, and secure global connectivity."
The findings reflect the real-world experience of Aryaka customers
such as Lauridsen Group International (LGI), a global manufacturer that
successfully adopted Aryaka's Unified SASE solution. Reid Kreimeyer, Sr.
Manager of IT Infrastructure and Operations at LGI, shared his
experience: "We're excited to be able to secure user access on company
machines and filter network and security traffic all the time, not just
when they're inside of our office."
This report, combined with insights from Aryaka customers like LGI,
offers manufacturing leaders actionable guidance on navigating the
evolving landscape of network security, where visibility, resource
management, and cybersecurity are paramount.
Download the Full Report
To learn more about network security challenges and trends in manufacturing, go
here to download the full report